Lionel Messi bid farewell to international football after 21 years, 126 goals, two Copa Américas and a World Cup title, scoring a penalty and setting up Argentina’s other two goals for a 3-0 victory over visitors Benin.
The 39-year-old marked his 208th and final appearance for the national team with a goal and two assists as Argentina defeated Benin in a friendly at a packed Estadio Monumental.
Following a goalless first half in yesterday’s encounter, Messi took control of proceedings after the break, setting up Nicolás Otamendi for the opener in the 48th minute before teeing up Nico Paz for Argentina’s second goal 13 minutes later.
Messi finished the night with eight shots, five on target and four key passes, while completing 80 per cent of his passes.
The victory brought the curtain down on an extraordinary international career in which Messi scored 126 goals and provided 67 assists in 208 appearances for Argentina.
But the night at the Monumental was about far more than the result.
Thousands of supporters gathered to celebrate their captain one final time, with a giant “Gracias” jersey displayed inside the stadium and fans giving Messi a standing ovation in the 10th minute.
As the final whistle approached, the atmosphere became increasingly emotional, with teammates and supporters joining Messi in marking the end of an era.
“The moment has arrived. I leave in peace. I gave it my all,” Messi said.
“I would have loved to be here with Argentina forever, until the end of my life, but it is time to retire.
“After the last World Cup, it is time to say goodbye. Thank you, because representing Argentina is the best thing ever.
“I never gave up for this shirt. I was always fighting, pushing and giving my best. For 20 years, I gave my best for Argentina.”
Messi also reflected on Argentina’s run to the 2022 World Cup final, where they were eventually beaten by France on penalties.
“At the last World Cup, we arrived in the final with just enough left in us, but we fought until the very end, like we always did,” he said.
“We came very close to winning it again, and despite everything that was said about us, nothing strange happened.”
The emotional farewell also affected Messi’s teammates. Enzo Fernández was visibly moved and broke down in tears as Messi delivered his farewell message.
Messi, meanwhile, struggled to hide his own emotions as he thanked the supporters who had followed him throughout his international career.
“I’m going to miss playing here so much. I love you all, and I’m proud to be Argentine,” he said.
“This shirt was my dream, my pride and my life for years. Thank you for loving me so much. Thank you for your support. I will always carry you with me.
“I leave grateful, proud and at peace. Thank you for everything.”